Peninsula home schoolers spend a day at the movies

Posted: Wednesday, December 05, 2001

By MATTHEW GRAVELLE

Why do monsters always seem to come from the closet? More than 100 home-school students were able to answer that question after attending a home school showing of "Monsters, Inc." at the Orca Theater Nov. 16. The theater opened its doors, allowing home schoolers on the Kenai Peninsula an opportunity to gather.

The Connections program, part of the Kenai Peninsula Borough School District, and particularly Connections' teacher Wendi Dutcher, were responsible for planning and organizing the event.

Mrs. Dutcher explained that schools such as Kalifornsky Beach Elementary offer "good student" awards. These awards are in the form of fun activities, one such activity being a trip to the theater. Orca generously allowed students a low-admission price and a fun-packed time at the movies.

According to Connections Director Erling Hofseth, the home-school program sought to help parents and students come together, meet each other and have fun.

"A whole bunch of people had a great time, and we are planning to hold an activity or workshop each month," said Mr. Hofseth, adding he believed the day had been a success.

Many students are eagerly awaiting the next home-school event.

Rebecca Sutton, a Connections home-school student, said, "It's neat to see other people do things for home schoolers."

Most of the students felt it was great to meet other home schoolers, visit with friends and have a good time. The students greatly enjoyed the opportunity at the theater and would like to express their thanks to the Connections Program, as well as Orca.

Connections' teachers are attempting to plan and implement an activity or workshop each month for home schoolers on the peninsula. In September, the students were able to tour the Agrium plant. Currently, Connections is planning a spring float trip down the Kenai River.

These events will bring home schoolers together and help unite the Connections program with other home-school families. Most importantly, they will give home-school students a chance to meet others who are learning and living the same lifestyle as them.